BRUNSWICK, Ga. – Brunswick police are warning parents and teenagers that disorderly gatherings and so-called “teen takeovers” will not be tolerated after a disruption during the city’s First Friday event last weekend.
In a statement posted by the Brunswick Police Department, Chief Angela Smith said the city has not previously had ongoing issues at First Friday but “will not allow the pattern to start.” The department asked parents and guardians to “take an active role” in knowing where their children are and who they are with.
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“Chaos or unlawful behavior will not be allowed in family-friendly spaces,” the statement said, adding that police will take enforcement action when necessary “to protect public safety and preserve order.”
The warning comes as communities across Northeast Florida have faced large groups of teens converging in public areas, often organized on social media, that can lead to fights, property damage, and traffic disruptions.
Smith said in an interview that the department is monitoring the situation as the month goes on and plans to maintain a visible presence at future events.
Smith is also urging parents to be accountable for their children.
“Be accountable for their children and for their whereabouts because asking them to be accountable is not just because we are afraid that the children are going to do something illegal, but we’re asking them to be accountable because we also want to help them keep their children safe,” Smith said.
First Friday events typically draw families and visitors to downtown Brunswick for food, music, and local vendors.
Police encouraged anyone with information about criminal behavior at public events to contact the department.